Finding joy in your job: insights from FIG's latest panel

On 21 February, RPC's inclusive insurance network, FIG, reconvened for a notable panel discussion, shedding light on the theme of "Finding joy in your job."

The event welcomed a blend of perspectives from FIG chair Alexandra Anderson and panellists Annette Andrews, Michelle Kennedy and Caroline de Souza. The panel provided a deep dive into how to achieve personal fulfilment within your profession, as well as top tips for difficult conversations. It was wonderful to see so many members joining us on a typically wet and windy London morning!

For those unable to attend the event, this blog covers the key points raised during the panel session, providing practical steps for finding joy in your job and top tips on how to handle difficult situations and salary negotiations.

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Tips on finding 'joy in your job'

Align work with personal values

Finding joy in your job often aligns with personal values and goals. Reflect on what aspects of your job you find most fulfilling and seek opportunities that amplify those elements.

Professional growth

Continuous learning and development are key to maintaining enthusiasm and engagement in one's career. Look for opportunities within your organisation to expand your skill set, through formal training programmes, cross-departmental projects or mentorship relationships.

Build supportive relationships

The significance of fostering positive relationships at work is paramount. Engaging with colleagues, finding mentors and participating in networking events can provide a sense of community and support, making daily challenges more manageable and enjoyable.

Celebrating successes

Regularly acknowledging and celebrating achievements is crucial for morale. It helps to maintain motivation and recognise the value of your work amidst the hustle of professional life. Take a few moments every day to think about something that has gone well, or where your achievements have been recognised.

Navigating difficult conversations

Prepare by outlining key points to seek a discussion, not a confrontation. Maintaining a positive environment is crucial. Think about how what you say will land with the person to whom you will be saying it, and make sure you adopt the right tone to achieve a positive impact.  Follow up with an email to document the conversation, ensuring clarity and accountability.

Tips for achieving a work-life balance

Routine

To achieve work-life balance, consider integrating structured physical activity into your routine, such as having regular walks or other physical activities, which offer both exercise and a mental refresh.

Diary management

Effective diary management is crucial: schedule your work and personal time with clear cut-offs to avoid burnout, including breaks to recharge during the day.

Digital detox

Embrace periods of digital detox, such as enjoying moments without your phone, to foster presence and spur creativity. These don't need to be long periods of time - simply deciding to go phone-free over lunch can help maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle, ensuring both professional productivity and personal well-being are prioritised.

Pressure curve

Managing stress effectively involves understanding the pressure-performance curve, which illustrates how performance varies with different levels of stress. Initially, too little pressure might result in boredom, but as pressure increases, performance peaks, indicating an optimal stress level. Recognising when pressure becomes excessive and performance starts to decline is crucial. Identifying this "dipping point" allows you to implement coping mechanisms, to momentarily step away and reduce stress. This awareness and proactive management of stress levels encourages a healthier work-life balance and personal well-being.

Tips for negotiating your salary

When it comes to salary negotiations, the panellists shared a wealth of strategies rooted in preparation, communication, and understanding one's worth.

• Research and benchmarking

  Start by gathering data on average salaries for your position within the industry and region. Utilise platforms like Glassdoor and LinkedIn to get an idea of what your peers are earning. This step establishes a factual basis for your negotiation.
  
  

• Articulate your value
  Each panellist emphasised the importance of clearly articulating your contributions and impact on the organisation. Prepare a list of your achievements, highlighting how they align with the company's goals and objectives. Whether it's leading successful projects, exceeding targets, or introducing efficiencies, accomplishments form the foundation of your negotiation.  
  
  

• Practice negotiation scenarios
  Role-playing negotiation scenarios can significantly boost your confidence. Practice with a friend or mentor, focusing on keeping the conversation positive and constructive. Anticipate objections and prepare your responses to ensure the discussion remains focused on your value and contributions.
  
  

• Consider non-monetary benefits
  Sometimes, there's limited flexibility on salary. Consider negotiating benefits that can enhance your job satisfaction and work-life balance. Examples include flexible working arrangements, additional vacation time or professional development opportunities.